A big boost from mentors

A new study by CAMH shows unexpected — and surprising — benefits of Big Brother and Big Sister mentoring relationships.

Terrell Lamb, a 9-year-old ball of energy who is affectionately nicknamed “Meatball,” pauses suddenly in midconversation, stops smiling and stares thoughtfully at the floor.

“Why would Ray think I don’t have a Big Brother from a program?” the boy asks James Prospero. “Ray says you’re a guy who just pretends to be my big brother,” he continues, fixated on a conversation with one of his young friends.

“Well, if we hang out all the time and we talk all the time,” Prospero starts, “I don’t think that’s pretending.”

Mentoring is an effective force against
bullying. By spending time together Big Brother Rob and Little Brother Dante
share a relationship that helps Dante build self esteem and learn vital social
skills. People can learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters and about how to
participate or donate to Bowl for Kids Sake by visiting www.bowlforkidssake.ca